Many species of birds kept in captivity must be rendered flightless to prevent escape from open enclosures. In this study, we evaluated the use of diode laser and cryosurgery as methods of ablating primary feather follicles in domestic pigeons (Columba livia). In group 1 birds (n  =  6), primary feather 10 of both wings was treated with the diode laser (10 W, 2 seconds) and primary feather 6 was treated with the cryoprobe (5 seconds, 3 cycles). In group 2 birds (n  =  6), primary feathers 10 and 6 were treated with the cryoprobe for 20 and 30 seconds, respectively, for 3 cycles. In all birds, primary feather 8 on both wings was manually pulled as the control follicle. Results showed that in group 1 birds, diode laser ablation prevented feather regrowth in 83% of follicles, however, freezing with the cryoprobe for 5 seconds did not prevent feather regrowth. In group 2 birds, treatment with the cryoprobe prevented feather regrowth at 100% and 42% of the treated sites (treatment times of 20 and 30 seconds, respectively). Significant tissue swelling and edema were observed in all group 2 birds. On histologic examination, follicle damage was most severe at the laser-treated sites in group 1 birds and at the 20-second freezing sites in group 2 birds, which correlated with the prevention of feather regrowth. The control follicles and follicles adjacent to treated areas in both groups were histologically normal. Feather follicle ablation with both the diode laser and the cryoprobe are effective in preventing feather regrowth; however, success with the cryoprobe depends on the ability of the probe to directly contact the feather follicle. Diode laser is a superior technique because it is faster, easier to perform, and causes minimal tissue damage.

A health assessment of the captive island population of Guam rail (Gallirallus owstoni) included a review of pathology records, diet analysis, and physical examination and diagnostic findings in prerelease and captive breeding populations (n  =  100 and n  =  55, respectively). The general health of domestic chickens (n  =  50) on Guam and Rota was also assessed. For rails, diagnostic tests included a complete blood count, plasma biochemical analysis, plasma protein electrophoresis, genus-specific plasma enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) for Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) antigen, arboviral serologic testing, culture for enteric pathogens (Salmonella and Campylobacter species) and Mycobacterium species, fecal examination for parasites, and genus-specific polymerase chain reaction assay for fecal MAC antigen. For chickens, diagnostic tests included arboviral serologic tests and fecal culture for enteric pathogens and Mycobacterium species. Results of testing in the rails were negative for arboviral seroconversion, enteric pathogens, and fecal parasites. Results of screening tests in prerelease rails for Mycobacterium species revealed 16% positive by fecal culture for Mycobacterium species, 0% positive by genus-specific fecal polymerase chain reaction testing for MAC antigen, and 23% seroprevalence by ELISA for genus-specific MAC antigen. Of the 16 positive mycobacterial cultures, 14 (88%) were identified as MAC and 2 (12%) were identified as non-MAC isolates. In chickens, results showed no arboviral seroconversion, no enteric pathogen shedding, and 11% prevalence of fecal non-MAC bacteria.

Techniques for endoscopic biopsy of the spleen and bursa of Fabricius were evaluated in 71 juvenile and adult white Carneau pigeons (Columba livia). Splenic biopsy was performed under isoflurane anesthesia by a left lateral approach to the coelom from behind the last rib. From within the left abdominal air sac, the spleen was located just caudal to the isthmus of the proventriculus and ventriculus and ventral to the gonad in 86% of pigeons examined. In the remaining 14%, extensive reproductive activity within mature female pigeons prevented visualization of the spleen. Splenic biopsy samples were successfully obtained from all birds in which the spleen could be found, and all were determined to be of good to excellent histologic quality. Endoscopic biopsy of the bursa of Fabricius was accomplished by cloacoscopy and saline irrigation with the pigeons in dorsal recumbency. The bursa of Fabricius was located and a biopsy was done in 28 (39%) of 71 pigeons. Initial histopathologic evaluation indicated that only 30% of the biopsy samples possessed lymphoid tissue of diagnostic quality. Splenic biopsy via coelioscopy appeared safe and rewarding in pigeons. Cloacoscopy provided an excellent view of the cloaca and appeared to be well tolerated; however, biopsy of the bursa of Fabricius is not recommended because of poor diagnostic value of the specimens and the risk of cloacal perforation.

A 9-month-old, 630-g male peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was admitted for examination with a history of a suspected traumatic injury acquired during training. A circular, 5-mm diameter wound was found in the skin overlying the left pectoral muscle. A similar wound was located in the midline in the apertura thoracis cranialis (thoracic inlet). Radiographic examination revealed the presence of a bullet in the coelom on the midline, immediately ventral to the base of the heart. The shape of the bullet was consistent with those fired from an air-powered rifle. Endoscopy through a left lateral approach facilitated visualization of the bullet, which was then removed with a pair of flexible grasping forceps. This minimally invasive approach enabled removal of the foreign body without damage to vessels or internal organs.

A red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) was presented because of dyspnea subsequent to 2 celiotomy procedures. Respiration markedly improved after an air sac cannula was placed. Tracheoscopy revealed a mass firmly adhered to the proximal tracheal wall. Because of lack of response to medical therapy, 5 tracheal cartilages were surgically resected and an end-to-end tracheal anastomosis was performed. On histologic examination of the mass, vacuolated macrophages, fibrosis, and occasional cholesterol clefts were identified, consistent with a diagnosis of xanthogranulomatosis. We propose that a single term, xanthogranulomatosis, replace the varied terms currently used to describe the syndromes in avian species in which intracytoplasmic lipid is found within tissue macrophages.

Eyelid anomalies caused by congenital or acquired etiologies occur in birds. A cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) was presented for evaluation of fused eyelids on the right side and a narrowed palpebral fissure on the left side after a burn accident. The right eyelids were reconstructed, and the left palpebral fissure was lengthened by using microsurgical techniques. The cockatiel regained a normal appearance after surgery, and corneal disease was prevented.

Two cases of unilateral micromelia are described in wild juvenile little penguins (Eudyptula minor). The first bird was found at San Remo, Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia. The bird's left flipper was reduced in length, and radiography demonstrated severe shortening and dysplasia of the humerus. The second bird was found having difficulty swimming off the coast near Fremantle, Western Australia. Clinical examination revealed that the bird was underweight (0.55 kg) but otherwise in good condition with subadult plumage and had probably only recently fledged from nearby Garden or Penguin Islands. The left wing was markedly reduced in size and had limited range of elbow and carpal joint movement but sensation and motor control were normal. Radiography demonstrated a severe reduction in size and distortion of the humerus and shortening and fusion of the ulna, radius, metacarpals, and phalanges. The furcula was asymmetrical because the left clavicle was slightly thinner and more radiolucent than the right and was also slightly deviated to the right side. Necropsy results of histopathologic examination revealed no other significant external abnormalities other than a mild focal heterophilic ulcerative proventriculitis from a mild burden of Contracaecum eudyptulae. Concentrations of heavy metals in kidney, liver, and brain were: cadmium, <6 mg/kg; mercury, <0.05 mg/kg; lead, <2 mg/kg; and selenium, 1.30 mg/kg. Possible causes of unilateral micromelia in these penguins are discussed.

The face of avian medicine is constantly changing. While the level and sophistication of avian practice may not yet be on par with that of cat and dog medicine, avian medicine has undergone great changes in the past 10–15 years. We avian practitioners know more than ever about what our patients need to stay healthy. We perform complicated diagnostic testing and intricate surgical procedures on birds. We understand bird diseases, dietary requirements, and behavior in greater detail than we ever have before. With the advent of the Internet, our clients also have greater (albeit sometimes misinformed) knowledge of their birds’ needs and problems. Owners’ questions are often very complex; consequently, we must stay well informed in our answers.

The purpose of this round table discussion is to raise a few issues avian practitioners encounter in a clinical setting and to share how these practitioners respond to these issues. I have asked 4 veterinarians who work with bird owners on a daily basis to discuss their views and experiences. The participants are Douglas Aspros, DVM, Bond Animal Hospital, White Plains, NY, USA; Cyndi Brown, DVM, Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, Tinton Falls, NJ, USA; Kemba Marshall, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Avian), Summertree Animal and Bird Clinic, Dallas, TX, USA; and Anthony Pilny, DVM, Dipl ABVP (Avian), The Center for Avian & Exotic Medicine, New York, NY, USA. In sharing their views, I hope these practitioners make all of us who regularly interact with bird owners think about our own responses and how these responses change as the practice of avian medicine evolves.